US and Iran signal progress on deal but diverge on key terms: Hormuz, sanctions, nuclear
Both the US and Iran have signaled progress on efforts to reach a deal to end their conflict, though their accounts of its terms differ on some issues. While Trump said an agreement is "largely negotiated," Iranian media reports suggest divergence on the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions relief, and the nuclear file.
Both the US and Iran have recently signaled progress on efforts to reach a deal to end their conflict, though their accounts of its terms differ on some issues across respective media narratives. US President Donald Trump on Saturday said an agreement with Iran to end the war was "largely negotiated" and awaited finalization. On Sunday morning, Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency also published a report on the details of a potential agreement. However, certain aspects of what has been agreed seem to diverge.
Strait of Hormuz
The US version: The deal would extend a ceasefire by 60 days, during which the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened without tolls, and Iran would remove mines. In return, Washington would lift its blockade on Iranian ports. Secretary of State Rubio said the strait should be "completely open" as an international waterway.
The Iranian version: The strait will not fully return to pre-war status. The number of ships allowed to pass would be restored to pre-war levels within 30 days. Tehran demands an end to the US blockade, arguing no changes will be made if the blockade remains.
Advertisement
Sanctions relief
The US is offering temporary sanctions waivers allowing Iran to sell oil freely, linked to reopening the strait and removing mines. Iran insists no agreement will be reached unless at least a portion of frozen assets is released immediately, seeking broader and more permanent sanctions relief.
Nuclear file
The US draft includes commitments from Iran not to pursue nuclear weapons, along with provisions to negotiate suspension of uranium enrichment. Iranian media reports indicate Tehran has not yet accepted anything on its nuclear program, with a potential 60-day negotiation window on the issue.
Ceasefire extent
Both sides agree the cessation of hostilities would mean a halt to fighting on all fronts, including Lebanon.
Context
A ceasefire took effect on April 8 through Pakistani mediation and was later extended indefinitely. Trump's remarks came after Pakistani army chief Asim Munir's visit to Tehran.
Comments you share on our site are a valuable resource for other users. Please be respectful of different opinions and other users. Avoid using rude, aggressive, derogatory, or discriminatory language.